3.3.2
Support
Mitcham's Corner Development Framework SPD
Representation ID: 31218
Received: 08/09/2016
Respondent: Michael Cahn
Support the removal of the gyratory
I agree with the planning principles, especially regarding:
* removal of gyratory system,
* reduction of vehicle speeds,
* introduction of two-way traffic,
I note that the drawing figure #27 is very preliminary in nature and leaves many questions open regarding the exact nature of the traffic flows. Especially the nature of the connection between Victoria Road and Mitcham's Corner deserves a closer look. With reference to the long-term closure of Victoria Rd in 2014 during major road works and sewer repairs we now have proof that the connection between Victoria Road and Mitcham's Corner is indeed not essential. Victoria Rd itself has some interesting commercial infrastructure of historical nature which deserves consideration and could flourish under pedestrian oriented redesign, which corrects the narrow and dangerous pavements which are under-specified throughout.
My second comment relates to the connection between Mitcham's Corner and Westbrook Centre and the housing development on the former sports fields behind it. Connectivity and permeability is very poor in this area. Figure #44 shows a double sided yellow arrow which highlights this issue without offering a clear solution. Figure #17 actually shows Corona Rd open to Westbrook Centre. This is an error on the map, but also a very desirable outcome. Such permeability, especially for non-motorized modes, is essential to make Mitcham's Corner a success and it should be expressly included in the final version of the plan. I also note that the document has no specific guidance for the Westbrook area, whereas specific guidance is included for Giles House and the Staples Site. It is well known that dis-connected sites and sites that lack universal permeability create impactful transportation issues for the life of the development. Improved permeability and connectivity for all modes must be addressed in the final document.
Support
Mitcham's Corner Development Framework SPD
Representation ID: 31225
Received: 05/09/2016
Respondent: Naomi Yandell
PLEASE rid the area of the gyratory system which gives cars domination (racetrack mentality), scares cyclists and makes pedestrians feel marginalised.
To summarise, my comments are as follows:
PLEASE rid the area of the gyratory system which gives cars domination (racetrack mentality), scares cyclists and makes pedestrians feel marginalised.
Make the area more people-friendly and let's have a gateway to central Cambridge which we can be proud of. Cafes/independent shops.
More trees and greenery.
Improve the situation for people cycling and walking.
Ensure that developments are of good quality and use local stone and are
sympathetic to their surroundings.
Make more room for bus stops so that pedestrians passing by don't have to step onto the roads to get past.
Object
Mitcham's Corner Development Framework SPD
Representation ID: 31272
Received: 21/09/2016
Respondent: Mrs Elizabeth Simpson
Support - The quicker this is implemented the better as over the years the sense of community has become disjointed due to the priority given to vehicle movement in order to relieve the congestion in the city centre and beyond.
However, in the greater city deal we were informed that there would be a 50% increase in traffic along Chesterton Road at certain times. How would this be controlled in the new Mitcham's Corner layout?
This is the most crucial part of the plan. Agree strongly with the assessment of the present situation.
The character of the area has been completely swamped by the gyratory system where vehicle movement is the only consideration. It has shattered the sense of community and left islands of sanity between which pedestrians scurry at their peril, especially if shepherding young children.
Please proceed as quickly as possible.
The quicker this is implemented the better as over the years the sense of community has become disjointed due to the priority given to vehicle movement in order to relieve the congestion in the city centre and beyond.
However, in the greater city deal we were informed that there would be a 50% increase in traffic along Chesterton Road at certain times. How would this be controlled in the new Mitcham's Corner layout?
Support
Mitcham's Corner Development Framework SPD
Representation ID: 31327
Received: 10/10/2016
Respondent: Dr Alastair J Reid
Agree this is a top priority for the health of the area and its residents and other users.
Agree this is a top priority for the health of the area and its residents and other users.
Support
Mitcham's Corner Development Framework SPD
Representation ID: 31395
Received: 16/10/2016
Respondent: Ms Cathy Parker
I support removing the gyratory If it is replaced with something safer, and more pleasant, for cyclists and pedestrians. Most essential is the provision of segregated cycles lanes for safety, both for the benefit of existing road users (motorists and pedestrians as well as cyclists), and to encourage more people to cycle rather than drive. Cyclists should not have to mix with motor vehicles. Motor vehicles should not be allowed to park in cycle lanes. Pedestrians should not have to share with cyclists. I also support more greenery where possible, more cycle parking, and the removal of on-street vehicle parking.
I support removing the gyratory If it is replaced with something safer, and more pleasant, for cyclists and pedestrians. Most essential is the provision of segregated cycles lanes for safety, both for the benefit of existing road users (motorists and pedestrians as well as cyclists), and to encourage more people to cycle rather than drive. Cyclists should not have to mix with motor vehicles. Motor vehicles should not be allowed to park in cycle lanes. Pedestrians should not have to share with cyclists. I also support more greenery where possible, more cycle parking, and the removal of on-street vehicle parking.
Support
Mitcham's Corner Development Framework SPD
Representation ID: 31444
Received: 17/10/2016
Respondent: Mr Simon Crowhurst
Unless the gyratory system is severed the area cannot be significantly changed, but it must be done in such a way that it doesn't cause backlogs in the surrounding area.
Unless the gyratory system is severed the area cannot be significantly changed, but it must be done in such a way that it doesn't cause backlogs in the surrounding area.
Object
Mitcham's Corner Development Framework SPD
Representation ID: 31477
Received: 17/10/2016
Respondent: Dr Caroline Stephens
Moving to an integrated scheme seems ambitious and it may be difficult to persuade everyone of the benefits and there is a genuine concern about how it can be used by people with sight problems or poor mobility.
Maybe a mixed scheme would be possible with one or two crossings.
I couldn't see from the system whether the junctions would be mini roundabouts or T junctions.
I think the plan is very exciting and has many really good points particularly the aim to make the area more pedestrian and cycle friendly by removing the gyratory system, the new pedestrian link routes and an aim to green up have an amenity space.
It is important that the remaining pavements are suitably wide.
Moving to an integrated scheme seems ambitious and it may be difficult to persuade everyone of the benefits and there is a genuine concern about how it can be used by people with sight problems or poor mobility.
Maybe a mixed scheme would be possible with one or two crossings.
I couldn't see from the system whether the junctions would be mini roundabouts or T junctions.
The opportunity area should include the space( currently dotted line ) down to the river and wichcote now that it has been sold.
I think care needs to be taken with the outdoor amenity space 1 to avoid an unused concrete area as it is right by two roads and there aren't any obvious cafes near by. It is vital to use trees as much as possible to green it up.
The access road behind the tall buildings in the middle of the area doesn't need to extend further than Springfield road and the space behind could also be amenity space or under tree parking as there isn't any provision for parking which local businesses would value.